The Best Backpacking Trails

Five Best Backpacking Trails

Backpacking has been growing in popularity as more people discover this adventurous and budget-friendly way of travel. By exploring a new area on your feet, you can experience your destination up close and personal, and since it is one of the cheapest ways of traveling, you afford to stay a greater length of time. Whether you want to try backpacking in the United States, Canada, or Europe, here are some of the best backpacking trails that offer breath-taking views.

Appalachian Trail, 30-Mile Wilderness, Monson, Maine

Maine's renowned 100-Mile Wilderness is the longest part of the Appalachian Trail. Thankfully, this trails best features appear in the first 30 miles, so you don't have to go great distances to see amazing views of Main's backwoods, roaring rivers, waterfalls, and lush maple forests.

John Muir Trail, Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite Valley, California

This world-famous trail offers some of the best wilderness along the Pacific Crest Trail. This 211-mile trail passes through the beautiful terrains found in Yosemite, Ansel Adams and John Muir wilderness, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. This trail is a backpacker's paradise, as you can hike for even 3 weeks without crossing a road.

West Coast Trail, Vancouver Island, Canada

This popular long-distance trail is known for its beauty and difficulty. While on the west coast trail, you're able to see sunsets on scenic beaches and enjoy trekking through the north-pacific rainforest. For safety reasons, you should be aware that this trail features a ton of ladders, and if going during the rainy season you can find yourself knee-deep in mud some. If you're brave enough to face it, you'll be rewarded with some amazing views.

Camino de Ronda, Costa Brava, Spain

This 136 mile trek begins in Blanes outside of Barcelona, and goes to the northern city of Collioure near the French border. This long but well-marked trail goes by many names – Camino de Rondas, Costa Brava Way, and GR-92. By backpacking along this trail, you'll be able to experience the beauty of coastal Spain, historic towns, hidden coves, and amazing local food.

Western Way Trail, Mayo, Ireland

This 5 day trail goes through magnificent mountain and moorland landscapes starting in Aasleagh near Leenaun and ending in Ballycastle. On your final walking day you will walk in the shadow of Ireland's historic Holy Mountain; Croagh Patrick. The Western Way is a mix of truly wild and untouched terrain, and some small charming Irish towns. You'll find some of the finest scenery Ireland has to offer on this trip.

Wherever you go, make sure to do some research and read reviews to make sure you know what to expect on your next backpacking trip. Having a relaxed schedule and freedom to be spontaneous is part of the fun, but you want to make sure you're prepared for the type of landscapes you'll be visiting.